CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS
Independent investigation when the stakes are high.
Experienced criminal-investigation and defense support for attorneys and clients throughout Michigan.
Important cases deserve a thorough review.
When someone’s freedom, reputation or future is at stake, assumptions are not enough. A thorough, independent investigation can identify unanswered questions, overlooked information and evidence that deserves closer examination.
Shield is led by Edward Kolakowski, who spent 28 years in law enforcement—including 15 years in the Kent County Sheriff’s detective bureau. That experience brings practical insight, disciplined fact development and sound judgment to every engagement.
Criminal investigation services may include:
- Witness identification, location and interviews
- Incident- and police-report review
- Evidence and timeline analysis
- Background research
- Scene-related fact development
- Trial-preparation assistance
- Indigent-defense investigative services
- Collaboration with defense attorneys
Facts without a predetermined conclusion
Shield follows the available information, documents the work carefully and provides attorneys and clients with reliable findings they can use to make informed decisions. Our investigative services support—but do not replace—the advice of qualified legal counsel.
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION FAQS
Understand the investigator’s role.
Independent investigation can help a defense team examine the facts, identify unanswered questions and prepare more thoroughly.
How can a private investigator help a criminal-defense case?+
A private investigator can locate and interview witnesses, review reports, examine timelines, document scene-related information and help identify facts that may have been overlooked. The investigator works alongside—not in place of—the defense attorney.
Can Shield review police reports and other case materials?+
Yes. Shield can review materials supplied by the client or attorney to identify inconsistencies, missing information, follow-up questions and investigative leads. Legal conclusions remain the responsibility of qualified counsel.
Can a private investigator interview witnesses?+
Yes. Shield can locate and professionally interview willing witnesses, document relevant information and provide findings to the defense team. An investigator cannot force someone to participate or provide a statement.
Is an independent investigation different from the police investigation?+
Yes. Law enforcement investigates on behalf of the government. A private investigator retained by a client or defense attorney independently examines issues relevant to the defense while remaining subject to applicable laws and professional standards.
Does Shield work directly with criminal-defense attorneys?+
Yes. Shield partners with attorneys and legal-defense teams throughout Michigan on witness interviews, evidence and report review, trial preparation, document service and other defined investigative assignments.